Asad Qureshi and Christiana Spens: Surviving the Taliban

Prepare for a riveting evening with Asad Qureshi, British filmmaker and author of 165 Days: Prisoner of the Taliban, as he shares his extraordinary and harrowing account of survival after being held hostage by the Taliban — one of the very few people to live to tell the tale.

Asad’s journey is one of incredible resilience and courage, offering a gripping insider’s perspective on the psychological and emotional toll of captivity in a world fraught with danger. His firsthand account reveals not only the challenges he faced but also the profound impact of his experience on his life and outlook.

Chairing this compelling discussion is Dr Christiana Spens, an insightful writer and academic whose work critically examines how Western media shapes public perceptions of terrorism. Christiana is the author of The Portrayal and Punishment of Terrorists in Western Media and her latest work, The Fear, which explores the psychological manipulation surrounding terrorism and the narratives that influence both public opinion and policy.

Together, Asad and Christiana will delve into crucial questions: How does an individual story like Asad’s fit within the broader media portrayal of terrorism? What can be done to ensure that these narratives are accurately represented, amidst a landscape often marred by sensationalism and fear?

This event promises to provide a rare and invaluable insight into the personal experience of surviving captivity by one of the world’s most feared terrorist organisations. Join us for an evening of powerful storytelling and critical discourse as we engage with two experts who blend personal experience with academic rigour on one of the most pressing issues of our time.

Don’t miss this chance to hear from Asad Qureshi and explore the profound implications of his remarkable journey!

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Folkestone Book Festival is our annual celebration of books, ideas, reading and writing in many magical forms. This year's festival has been curated by award-winning author and journalist Sophie Haydock. Sophie is our new Curator: Books, Ideas and Community.

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This year's festival is for everyone and we want to make it possible for more people than ever before to be able to come together and enjoy a packed festival. To make this possible we have introduced a £5 ticket. This is a no questions asked ticket for those that may be struggling to afford events and performances.

Or grab a festival pass and enjoy the whole festival for just £140. Click here to book your festival pass

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We thank our sponsors Eurotunnel, Friends of the Folkestone Book Festival and our Education Partner Canterbury Christ Church University for making this year's festival possible.

Creative Folkestone is also supported by Arts Council England, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Kent County Council and The Roger De Haan Charitable Trust.